Legal Definitions - damnum infectum

Definition: Damnum infectum (dam-nəm in-fek-təm) is a Latin term used in Roman law to refer to a loss that has not yet been suffered but is threatened or anticipated. This can occur when there is a risk of damage or harm to one's property or interests.

Example: A common example of damnum infectum is when a neighbor's building is in danger of collapsing onto one's property. In this situation, the potential loss or damage to one's property is not yet realized, but it is anticipated and feared. Another example could be a pending lawsuit that may result in financial loss, even though the outcome is uncertain.

The examples illustrate how damnum infectum refers to a potential loss or harm that has not yet occurred but is feared or anticipated. It is important to consider the possibility of damnum infectum when assessing risks and making decisions that could impact one's property or interests.